Why is Pope Julius II important?

Pope Julius II is known as the greatest art patron of the papal line. He was nicknamed ‘The Warrior Pope,’ and was seen as one of the most powerful rulers of his age. Julius II is known to be a causing contributor to the reformation, as his focus on the arts and politics alienated northern Europe. He is still one of the most famous Pope’s throughout history, as he is responsible for some of the best tourist destinations in all of Italy.

Before Being Pope

Originally named Giuliano Della Rovere, Julius II was born in 1443 to a noble but poor family. He was tutored by his uncle, who would go on to become Pope Sixtus IV in 1471. Due to this connection, Guilano was elected as the Cardinal Priest of San Pietro in Vincoli in Rome. Giuliano has many attempts in gaining power. After his uncle’s death, Giuliano bribed electors to initiate Cardinal Cibo as Pope Innocent VIII. Giuliano was able to control Innocent VIII easily throughout his reign, which lasted eight years until 1492. After Innocent VIII’s death, Giuliano tried to become Pope but was rejected due to the cardinals disapproving of his past control of power. Instead, Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia was appointed, becoming Pope Alexander VI until his death in 1503. During this time Giuliano left the city in exile, like Alexander VI and he were enemies. Alexander VI’s successor Pius III only lasted 26 days as Pope before he too passed. Giuliano finally was able to become Pope Julius II in 1503, after heavily bribing the Cardinals.

The Warrior Pope

Julius II used warfare to accomplish his striving goals. Extending the papacy’s power as the dominant political and military force, confiscating the landholdings of Cesare Borgia, freeing all of Italy from the French, and stopping the rebellion of local lords. While he never neglected his duties to the Burch, he devoted most of his attention to political issues.

A Patron of the Arts

Julius II is famously known as the greatest investor of the arts out of all the past and present Popes in Italy. He was known to inspire great artistic creations, commissioning masterpieces from great artists such as Bramante, Raphael, and Michelangelo. Majority of these great artists best-known works were commissioned by Julius II. Electing Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling. Appointing Raphael to create the four Raphael’s Rooms. As well as asking Bramante to construct new basilica for St. Peter’s. He was so close to some of these masters, that Julius II became Michelangelo’s intellectual collaborator.